Keller Ford dealership changes Hanford's auto industry

A new Ford dealership brings a new chapter for the auto industry in Hanford. Opening day is just a couple weeks away.

The new dealership will be on 11th Avenue and Cadillac Lane, just south of Highway 198.

Construction crews are focused on outdoor landscaping and hooking up internet connections at what will soon be Hanford's new Ford dealership.

Owner Jon Keller says the August 26th opening of the state-of-the-art facility will not only mean a new building but also a new name. Valley Ford will now be known as Keller Ford.

Keller said, "We were trying to grow and the facility we're currently leasing is way too small. The lot is packed we have no service parking the actual building is too small."

Jon Keller bought Valley Ford back in 2008, around the height of the auto industry's downfall. Next door's Chrysler dealership had to close down, then later was able to reopen as a used car dealership. It's now back to being fully operational.

Keller says sales have progressively grown over the last three years, with 2013 being one of the best yet.

After Keller moves the Ford dealership, the Valley Ford building will be torn down. It's stood in the city for just about 50 years, built in 1964. But with Keller's move comes new business.

Melody Haigh with Hanford Community Development added, "I think there's some future plans for that area but at this point we have a site plan that talks about the demoing of the building as well as construction of CVS Pharmacy."

The project also includes two other buildings, a quick lane service shop and a used car building.

They're looking to hire 15 more sales and service people. If you're interested in one of the openings just stop by Keller Motors next door.